There's nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of a Pecan Dump Cake filling your kitchen as it bakes to golden, caramelized perfection. This ultra-simple dessert layers crunchy pecans, buttery cake mix, and sweet, gooey pie filling to create a treat that's both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or when you’re simply craving a taste of Southern hospitality, this dump cake is guaranteed to please.

I first made this cake on a whim when I needed a quick dessert for a last-minute family gathering. Little did I know it would become an instant favorite, with everyone eagerly asking for the recipe. Let’s dive into the details so you can whip up this delightful treat for your loved ones too!
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Dump Cake
Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to dessert. This Pecan Dump Cake brings together all the flavors you crave with a fuss-free preparation that's almost too easy.
First off, there’s no need for fancy equipment or complicated steps. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of your time, you can assemble this cake and pop it in the oven. It’s practically effortless, yet tastes like you’ve been baking all day.
The texture is a showstopper: gooey and sweet on the inside, with a crispy, buttery pecan topping. Each bite is a dreamy combination of flavors that are as decadent as they are comforting.
And let’s not forget how adaptable it is. You can switch up the fillings and even add a few extra ingredients to make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic pecan and caramel or experiment with new combinations, this recipe always delivers.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Pecan Dump Cake lies in the simplicity of its ingredients, which come together to create a dessert that’s both rich and complex. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Canned pie filling: The classic choice is apple or cherry, but feel free to experiment. The sweetness and syrupy texture of the pie filling create the perfect base for the cake. If you want a twist, try peach or mixed berry.
- Yellow cake mix: This is your shortcut to a deliciously fluffy cake layer. Any brand of boxed yellow cake mix will work. Don’t be tempted to mix the cake mix beforehand – sprinkling it dry over the filling is what makes the cake’s signature texture.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the gooey filling. If you’re a fan of extra nutty flavors, you can even toast the pecans beforehand to deepen their flavor.
- Butter: Melted butter is the secret to a golden, crispy topping. Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness, and make sure to drizzle it evenly to cover all the dry cake mix.
- Brown sugar and cinnamon (optional): For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon over the top. It will add a caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pecans and pie filling.
No special equipment is needed here – just a 9x13-inch baking dish and a spatula for spreading out the layers!
How To Make This Pecan Dump Cake

Making this Pecan Dump Cake is easier than you’d imagine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure it comes out perfect every time.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
- Layer the pie filling: Open your cans of pie filling and spread them evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure the entire base is covered for a uniform, gooey layer that contrasts with the crumbly cake topping.
- Add the dry cake mix: Carefully sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pie filling. Don’t press it down or mix it in – simply let it sit on top. This layering is what gives the cake its unique texture.
- Top with pecans: Scatter the chopped pecans over the dry cake mix, distributing them as evenly as possible. The pecans will add a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Drizzle with melted butter: Melt your butter and drizzle it evenly over the entire surface. Make sure to cover as much of the dry cake mix as possible to ensure a beautifully golden crust.
- Bake until golden: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set.
The total time from start to finish is about an hour, with only 5-10 minutes of hands-on prep work. Easy and delicious!
Storage Options
This Pecan Dump Cake is as easy to store as it is to make. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Room temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a day, you can leave it at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap or foil. The texture will remain gooey and delicious.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, cover the baking dish tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The cake’s texture will firm up slightly, but it will still taste fantastic.
- Freezing: To freeze, portion out the cake into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
When it’s time to reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to warm it up. The gooey filling and crispy topping will be as satisfying as when it was first baked.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, and you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand:
- Fruit options: Swap out the apple or cherry pie filling for something different, like peach, blueberry, or even mixed berry. Each fruit gives the cake a unique flavor profile.
- Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try chopped walnuts or sliced almonds. You can also skip the nuts entirely for a simpler cake.
- Cake mix: While yellow cake mix is traditional, you can use spice cake mix for a fall-inspired twist or chocolate cake mix with cherry filling for a Black Forest flavor.
- Toppings: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
- Healthier swaps: Use sugar-free pie filling and a lower-fat butter substitute if you’re watching your calorie intake. The texture will still be satisfying, though the flavor may be slightly different.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this Pecan Dump Cake your own. With so many delicious variations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
PrintPecan Dump Cake Recipe
This Pecan Dump Cake Recipe is an easy and mouthwatering dessert that features rich, nutty pecans and sweet, buttery cake mix layers. With a quick prep time and minimal ingredients, it delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort. Perfect for holidays or a simple family treat, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) of your favorite pie filling (like apple or cherry)
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the pie filling evenly over the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the pie filling, spreading it out to cover completely.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- For added flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them.
- Use different pie fillings for a unique twist each time you make this cake.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 320mg
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